"Chuck vs the Aussie"
AN1: Hi everyone, we continue this little story – now that the enemies from last chapter have been introduced I now introduce a couple of friends and then there is a night out. Now before I get the – 'they are athletes before Olympics they wouldn't go out' – my reasoning is 1) they will be 'good' (Not drinking/being crazy) 2) the party stories at this Olympics appear legendary (and they are young after all) and 3) I don't think it is unrealistic (life and all that) and it moves the plot where I need it to go – let me know if you disagree I love the feedback.
Disclaimers – I don't own Chuck or the Olympics (additional disclaimers in AN2).
Oh – italics will always denote character thoughts and once again keep an eye on the time shifts and dates.
And thank you to everyone who has provided feedback – you have no idea how much I appreciate it! I try to always PM reviewers my thanks and little bits of info or when I think chapters are coming and to respond to great questions! So thanks again!
Chapter 5: Night Out
Gym at the Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 24, 2012
9:35 hrs BST
Chuck wandered the gym area going from station to station in order to get a little exercise as he awaits Sarah's return. He plays over the confrontations with both Shaw and Bryce in his mind… I really wish I didn't have to deal with those idiots… I don't need any distractions this close to the Games… hopefully seeing Sarah will help my mood.
As he continues to spiral over the run-ins with Shaw and Bryce, he looks up and sees Sarah's smiling face as she approaches. Chuck's heart races as a large Bartowski grin graces his face and a warm feeling suffuses his body. Wow she is so beautiful… it's scary how strongly she makes me feel… we barely know each other. Chuck shakes off those less than helpful thoughts as he smiles, "Hey Sarah, all set?"
"Ya, my Mom is doing great… but I got another call – my trainer needs to meet with me and I have a team meeting later so I unfortunately I have to head out… sorry."
Chuck masks his disappointment and smiles at Sarah, "Nothing to be sorry about. We are all a little busy… thanks for coming out! I had a lot of fun."
"So did I! That was most fun I have ever had training," or on a date she thinks, "and I would love to do that again sometime… you know if you're free?" Sarah asks curiously with an expectant look.
"That would be great!" Chuck replies happily with a huge smile.
"Great! Bye Chuck… see you soon and have a good one!" Sarah says excitedly.
Bye Sarah and have fun with your friends and don't be too bored at your team meeting," Chuck says jokingly with a bright smile.
"Ha-ha, will do," Sarah says over her shoulder as she begins to rush out of the gym, waving and smiling at Chuck as she goes. But before she exits she stops in her tracks and turns. She runs to Chuck and gives him a quick hug… she quickly releases him and gives him a shy smile as she looks to her feet awkwardly before bolting out of the gym. As she leaves she turns while jogging and offers a shy "Bye" before disappearing out of Chucks view.
Chuck stands dumbfounded with a rather silly grin and expression locked on his face unable to think after the touch of Sarah Walker.
Meanwhile…
As Chuck stands dumbfounded by Sarah's hug, two men stand 2 feet away looking at the humorous sight before them with wry smiles on their face. One man was shirtless exposing his athletic frame and six pack abs. He had blondish brown hair and a big grin. He was tall and clad in red running shoes and red spandex biker style shorts with a little white maple leaf on the lower thigh above the knee. The other man was shorter with a suave demeanor and a confident gleam in his dark, hazel eyes. The shorter man had raven black hair and black stubble peppering his classically handsome face.
The taller, muscular blond man chuckles good naturedly at his stunned friend before he lets out a booming salutation in order to break Chuck from his Sarah induced reverie.
"Hey Chuckster! Good to see you eh!" the shirtless man bellows.
"Huh?" Chuck says as he shakes his head and looks over at the two men. "Oh, hey Captain Awesome! How's my favorite Canuck (Canadian) swimmer doing?!"
"I'm doing awesome bro!" Devon Woodcombe replies happily with a large grin on his face.
Chuck and Devon had met years earlier at the Pan-American Games when they competed for their respective nations. They became fast friends due to Chuck's humorous, kind and likeable nature and Devon's easy going and equally kind and likeable personality. There was healthy competition and each man would occasionally rib (tease) the other in good nature of course, but really they were good friends who respected one another as both athletes and as people.
"Oh how rude of me," Devon says before clapping the man next to him on the shoulder, "This dashing fellow with me is Cole Barker, he's one of the Brit swimmers."
Cole smiles and offers his hand cordially, "How do you do mate," in his smooth English accent.
"I'm doing well Cole, nice to meet you!" Chuck replies happily while shaking Cole's hand.
Cole's smile turned a little wry as he appraised Chuck, "I wanted to tell you well done mate. I saw you there with Sarah Walker – she shot me down and damn near every male, swimmer or otherwise, with a pulse. Boy I was hoping to butter that beautiful Aussie muffin, but alas I stand aside as she clearly has her sights set on you - ya lucky Yank." Cole finishes with a smile and a slight bow of respect to Chuck.
"Um… thanks… I guess?" Chuck says before his mind catches up as he briefly felt a flash of anger at this possible competitor for Sarah's heart before realizing the man had been summarily shot down and stood aside. This internal debate lasted for a mere second before Chuck determined that despite his attempt to woo Sarah, Cole Barker was a decent guy… but he would keep an eye on him. Chuck thinks to himself… does he really have to be so damn handsome and suave… I mean I have enough going against me without having to compete with guys who… who look like that!
Awesome chimes in "Cole behave and good on ya Chuck, I saw her hug you that is… outstanding, up top bro," Devon says before high fiving Chuck.
Devon continues, "Sarah is awesome… wait, isn't Sarah friends with your teammate and friend Zondra?"
"Ya they are good friends: Sarah, Zondra and Carina. They all went to university together. Zondra is awesome and so is Carina… but Carina is rather… aggressive if you know what I mean. Think a beautiful and deadly predator with you being the prey… so tread lightly gentlemen," Chuck says with a faux serious look that breaks into a smile.
"Ah… Carina Hansen right? I've heard stories," Cole remarks with a contemplative look on his face.
"Just giving you fair warning, I've heard a few guys ended up handcuffed to a bed post – vicious rumors, but still," Chuck says with a smirk.
Cole smiles back, "Much appreciated Chuck, well since you are giving us the heads up I should tell you to watch out for two real wankers in the swimming competition. Sadly, one of them is my teammate and countryman…"
"Let me guess Shaw?" Chuck replies cutting off Cole's response.
Cole gives Chuck a perplexed look before his face transforms to a smile when the realization quickly dawns upon him, "Ah, you have had the pleasure or should I say displeasure of meeting this… person," Cole says emphasizing his disgust when he says 'person.'
Yep, unfortunately… the guy seems like a 'real' winner," Chuck says, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
"Ha! To right, a bloody embarrassment is what he is!" Cole responds while shaking his head and chuckling.
"Also, is it just me or is he rather… wooden?" Chuck asks with a scrunched brow.
"It's not just you mate, that bloke's got the personality of a fence post!" Cole declares with a laugh at the expense of his 'teammate.'
Devon laughs, "So NOT Awesome!"
Cole smiles at Devon before looking back to Chuck, "The other guy to watch out for is an Irishman…"
Chuck's head drops, "Larkin," Chuck says with an exasperated sigh.
"I guess I didn't need to warn you after all. You've been here less than a week and already ran into the two biggest jackasses in the Games, you're rather lucky aren't ya Chuck?"
"Ha, ya apparently that's me… Bryce and I unfortunate go way back… he was on the Stanford Swim Team with me." Chuck's face darkens, "He says he's going to go after Sarah… he was very disrespectful and I almost decked him," Chuck says as he seethes at the memory.
Devon's expression turns serious, "I wouldn't blame you - so NOT awesome!"
"They both give the sport and all of us a bad name," Cole adds while shaking his head in a frustrated manner.
Chuck nods his head solemnly in agreement, but is broken from his thoughts of his nemesis, well nemeses, by the beeping of his cell phone. He looks at his iphone's screen and sees a text message from his trainer reminding him of a team meeting.
"Hey sorry guys I've gotta run to a team meeting. Awesome I still have your number and just so you know my little group is probably going to a pub after dinner, obviously nothing crazy so close to the Games, but a little fun and a chance to see some of the sights. I will text you where we are at if you are interested… you're welcome too Cole," Chuck says with a smile as he gets his gear together.
"Much appreciated mate, but I have plans," Cole responds with a smile.
"Hey nice to meet you Cole and good to see you Devon, see ya later," Chuck says over his shoulder as he heads out of the gym.
Le Gavroche French Restaurant
London, United Kingdom
July 24, 2012
18:35 hrs BST
The rest of the day went by rather uneventfully, compared with the morning at least, as Chuck had meetings and more training and preparations. Because the opening ceremonies and swimming events were coming rather soon Mary decreed that the family, plus Morgan, would be going out for a nice meal before the Games truly began. Chuck was excited as this would be a small respite from the training and the strict regimen that he would need to continue during the Games in order to ensure his best performance.
Mary decided that since Stephen wasn't able to attend that he would have the honor of paying for dinner or rather Orion Games would pay for the Bartowski family's very important "business meeting." As a result, Mary decided that Le Gavroche, one of the top restaurants in London would be the location of their special dinner before the Games.
They arrive at 43 Upper Brook Street in a black Hackney Carriage (taxi) and Chuck, ever the gentleman, quickly exits and opens the back door for this Mom and Sister as Morgan exits the front seat. Ellie and Mary smile at Chuck in thanks before turning their eyes to the over four story, large red brick building before them. The beautiful building stood proudly. At the center of the building were 11 white trimmed windows, four windows per story with the twelfth 'window' on the right hand side of the bottom floor being the doorway into Le Gavroche. On either side of the central windows (and door) surrounded by red brick were two sections of expertly carved white stone creating a beautiful façade while containing more windows all the way up to the black tiled roof. All together the old European building really struck the family from California.
They made idle chit chat about the building and Chuck's training as they excitedly walked to the entrance of the restaurant under the black wrought iron awning to the dark, heavy wood door. As expected the service was exemplarity and they were quickly seated in the ornately French decorated green dining room. The green walls were trimmed with dark wood and covered in places with beautiful French art and prints in matching wood frames. Overall the restaurant had a very classy ambiance for the family's dinner.
As they were seated they were all smiles and began chatting amiably before they ordered wine, hors-d'oeuvres and their main courses. Dinner was spectacular as expected and Chuck thoroughly relished his meal: Côte de Veau aux Morilles et Pommes Mousseline (Cumbrian Rose Veal, Creamed Morel Mushroom Sauce and Mashed Potatoes). The others enjoyed duck, chicken and stone bass in traditional French cream sauces, which delighted Ellie, Mary and nearly caused Morgan to fall into a blissful food coma… he survived though, as the Bartowski's watched bemused by his foodie antics (foodie – Bon vivant/connoisseur).
Chuck takes a sip of 2004 Le Soula Rouge wine and smiles at his family, "Oh, we forgot to have a toast! Ok… to our interesting little family, you have all been there for me and I know I would never have made it this far without all of you… and to Mom for taking us to this wonderful dinner and for introducing me to the sport I love," Chuck says looking at his family.
"That's beautiful Charles thank you," Mary says with a proud smile.
"Ya Chuck! That was some punishment that got you to start swimming back when we were kids huh…" Ellie says with a teasing smile.
"To some punishment!" Chuck declares happily.
Ellie, Mary and Morgan smile and follow Chuck boisterously, "To some punishment!"
As the group finished dinner and awaited desert Mary turned to Chuck, "So how was training today?"
"It was good… I ran into a couple of jerks though…" Chuck replies unenthusiastically.
"Oh, that's not good, who?" Ellie asks curiously.
"Well you remember Larkin?" Chuck says being interrupted by Ellie.
"Not that douche… Ok enough said about him, who was the other?" Ellie asks curiously.
"Just some Brit named Daniel Shaw… his teammate Cole actually warned me about him after the fact… he said Shaw's a real wanker!" Chuck says with a small smile.
"Don't let them get under your skin," Mary says seriously to Chuck.
"Don't worry, I won't," Chuck says smiling at his Mother.
"Hum… do we know Cole?" Mary asks.
"No, he was with Captain Awesome… I mean Devon. Hey Ellie I haven't introduced you to Devon yet. He's a good guy; I really should introduce you two." Chuck says looking at his sister while taking a sip of his water.
"Maybe… is he really that awesome?" Ellie asks incredulously.
"Yep!" Chuck replies merrily.
"Anyyywaaay," Morgan says in mock indignation at being left out of the discussion. "So, what did the jackass Larkin say to you anyway?"
"Well, he was his usual jerk self… but… he made some really disrespectful comments about Sarah… I almost lost it, but in the end I walked away," Chuck says a little disappointed that he didn't do more to defend Sarah's honor.
Ellie's head perks up upon hearing a girl's name as she snaps her head toward Chuck, "Who is Sarah Chuck! Wait do you have a girlfriend!" Ellie says moving toward a state of squealing Elliejoy.
"Ellie! Contain your joy! I met Sarah at the airport… and I didn't think I would see her again… but she's friends with Zondra and it turns out she's a swimmer so we ran into each other at the gym. So… not dating, but we trained in the pool this morning… it was fun…" Chuck says his face morphing into a smile towards the end as he talked about Sarah.
Ellie and Mary looked at one another knowingly as smiles broke across their faces, "That's great Chuck," Ellie says smiling.
Morgan jumps in, "Well I think you should have hit Bryce for talking about your lady friend Chuck! You should have broken out some Kung-Fu on them," he says before poorly mimicking Kung-Fu hand moves.
"Morgan!" Ellie and Mary whisper loudly.
"Charles you did the right thing… and we will leave you alone about Sarah…" Mary says emphasizing the point by looking at Ellie sternly. Ellie capitulates with a little nod as Mary continues, "for now," before she smiles wryly at Chuck.
Chuck smiles, "Ok."
The group finished dinner and Mary, well Orion, paid for the meal before they headed out to the awaiting Hackney Cab.
Once they entered the cab Morgan became excited, "We should go to a pub, it's still early after all and I know you can't really drink, but it would be a fun time seeing a real, authentic British pub… what do ya say?
Chuck smiles, "I'm in, but no trying to get me drunk Morgan!" He says with a faux stern expression.
"I wouldn't dream of it," Morgan says with an attempted innocent look that Chuck was not buying for a second.
"I'm in," Ellie says. "How about you Mom?"
"No thanks kids, I want to get an early night and I have to do some research on Charles' competition… we can't be too prepared. You kids have fun, but take it easy Charles; there will be plenty of time for fun after your events are done!"
"Got it Mom, have fun spying! And I will be good I promise! Also thank Dad for dinner," Chuck says with a grin as the cab leaves the restaurant for Mary's hotel, while Mary chuckles at her sons comments.
The Red Lion Pub, St. James
2 Duke of York Street, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom
July 24, 2012
19:45 hrs BST
Chuck, Ellie and Morgan arrived at the Red Lion Pub via another Hackney Carriage. The outside of the pub is ornately designed black wood with 'Red Lion' written in large gold lettering over top of the entrance, while a red lion coat of arms hangs in front of the pub. As they enter the heavy wood doors they see two large curved wooden bars and the pubs entrance has wood encased glass with etched designs (on the glass). All together this created a very spectacular and traditional old world pub environment.
They enter the historic pub and find it to be busy, though they were able to grab a table as it was still relatively early and before the rush later in the evening. Ellie and Chuck sat down at the table as Morgan went to the bar to get Ellie and himself a stout English beer and Chuck a soda (he had to be good after all). While at the bar Morgan ordered their drinks as well as an extra two shots of vodka for himself to 'get the night started right,' while he waited for the other drinks. Morgan thought to himself, Chuck may not be able to get his drink on, but I sure can… and there are so many pretty women to chat with… yep drinking will help…
Morgan came back to the table awkwardly holding the three drinks, passing the beer to Ellie and the soda to Chuck.
"So here are your drinks… I'm going to head off to do a circle of the pub looking for pretty Brits… or well pretty girls in general – wish me luck!" Morgan says in voice attempting to be suave, but coming off as being more comical than smooth.
Ellie chuckles at Morgan, "Sounds good… um… have fun?"
"Ya, be good my little bearded buddy!" Chuck says with a big smile.
Morgan smiles widely before heading off on his 'mission.'
Chuck laughs and shakes his head at Morgan and his antics while he sends a text off to Devon before turning back to chat with Ellie.
The Red Lion Pub, St. James
2 Duke of York Street, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom
July 24, 2012
20:35 hrs BST
Ellie and Chuck chat amiably for half an hour until a tall muscular man approaches the table, with a huge smile on his face while carrying a large pint of Guinness. He pats Chuck on the arm, "Hey Chuckster, how's it going buddy!"
"Awesome! You made it - great to see! How's the Beer?" Chuck asks curiously.
"It is great! I always like to try some local beer! Got to compare it to back home!" Devon replies jubilantly, while Chuck laughs at his beer loving Canadian friend.
"Devon, this is my sister Ellie. Ellie, this is my good Canadian friend Devon 'Captain Awesome' Woodcombe," Chuck says to his sister with a large smile.
Ellie's face lights up as she shakes Devon's hand as he laughs good heartedly at Chuck's introduction.
"Chuck is too kind, but it is so nice to meet you Ellie," Devon replies with an honest, charming smile.
"So Devon, I gather you're a swimmer like my brother?" Ellie asks curiously.
"Yep, I work as a paramedic when I am not training back home in Vancouver… what about you?" Devon asks.
"Really a paramedic, that's great! I'm a doctor, well a Resident in L.A., but I also minored in nutritional health and kinesiology at UCLA so I try to help Chuck where I can," Ellie replies with a shy smile, worried that she was being boastful.
Devon smiles widely, "That is so awesome! A doctor and an expert on nutrition! WOW, a woman after my own heart!" Devon replies jubilantly. "I'm actually a bit of an amateur nutritionist… I love to design protein shakes to help me build muscle and for general health… I would love to get an expert opinion… if you were interested…" Devon asks with a charming smile.
Chuck looks on at his sister and Captain Awesome barely holding back a laugh as he sees the sparks fly. They are so engrossed in their conversation that he gets up and directs Devon into his chair before smiling and heading off to get a refill of his soda at the bar.
Once a the bar Chuck looks back at Devon and Ellie talking animatedly about nutrition and their jobs before smiling widely and uttering quietly under his breath, "Awesome…"
Later…
Chuck stands at the bar looking out at the fun atmosphere and smiles – he is having fun despite not drinking and with Morgan and Ellie otherwise occupied. He also rather enjoys observing the foreign culture – he is a nerd at heart after all.
As he takes a sip of his cola he is suddenly grabbed by a rather inebriated Morgan Grimes.
"Chuck, buddy how's ya going? Morgan asks with a buzzed smile and grammar that would make their old elementary school teacher, Mrs. Woods cringe.
"I'm good buddy, what are you doing… trying to channel Jeff Barnes?" Chuck says with a laugh.
"Nah, I'm good… no better than good! I met a beautiful woman! Where's Ellie? Me and Alex, she's the girl I met… such a sexy accent by the way, are going to a nightclub!" Morgan says jumping with excitement.
"Cool, um Ellie was hitting it off with Devon… yep she's over there," Chuck says pointing to their table. "We can ask if she is game… I still can't drink and I have to take it easy, but I should really watch out for my little buddy," Chuck says as he side hugs Morgan.
"Awesome! Let's go!" Morgan bellows heading for the door.
Chuck laughs and follows the jubilant Morgan saying under his breath, "Morgan's channeling Devon… this could be fun…"
St. James's Hotel and Club
London, United Kingdom
July 24, 2012
21:05 hrs BST
Sarah and Emma had enjoyed a nice meal in the restaurant at Emma's hotel, while chatting amiably about Sarah's training and the pair's excitement over the coming Games.
"So Sarah… I talked to Zondra today and she mentioned something rather… interesting," Emma says to Sarah as she raises a single eyebrow while studying her daughter.
Sarah's face falls into an expression of shock, thinking to herself: Oh no please not this conversation… I'm going to kill Zondra! "Um… I don't know what you're talking about," Sarah says while stirring her drink with her straw, while avoiding her mother's powerful gaze.
"Don't play coy with me Sarah – spill!" Emma says sternly.
Sarah huffs out a loud sign, "Fine, I met a guy at the airport and I forgot to get his number even though we hit it off. I never thought I would see him again but…"
"What?" Emma asks, urging her on.
"Well I ran into him at the Aquatics Center… he's actually a swimmer and a good friend of Zondra's, so she introduced us. He invited me to train this morning and it was so much fun, but I had to leave earlier than I would have liked." Sarah says smiling at her memories.
"What does this boy look like? Is he nice? Emma asks curiously.
Sarah lets out a sigh as her eyes stare off into space. "Chuck… he's… he's perfect – He is kind, smart, funny and he is a perfect gentleman." Sarah says before quietly adding nearly under her breath, "and he is very hot…"
Emma smiles widely at that little tidbit about her daughter's mystery man. "And what does he look like?"
Sarah smiles widely, "Well, he is tall with dark brown curly hair and deep chocolate brown eyes… he is so fit, but I didn't know that until I saw him at the pool. At the airport his grey Team USA jacket hid his physique…" Sarah says as she becomes lost in though.
"WAIT!" Emma blurts out excitedly.
"Mom… you Ok," Sarah asks worriedly at her Mom's outburst.
"I'm fine honey! I saw him in L.A. at the airport! He was the cute American I told you about; remember I told you about the little bearded man that started a chant for this Olympian friend? Well the guy you are describing was that athlete! This is so wonderful!" Emma says with an ecstatic smile.
Sarah looks on in shock, no way! She steadies herself, "Are you sure? That is so strange… Zondra said she's being trying to introduce us for years and it seems like we have been so close to meeting a bunch of times… it's… just a little odd…" Sarah says trailing off with a thoughtful expression.
"Sarah, it's amazing is what it is! Just give it a shot and listen to your heart – remember what I said at the airport," Emma says with a smile that turns into a stern motherly expression.
"I remember Mom and I plan on giving it every chance," Sarah responds with a smile.
As the Mother and daughter share a moment their reverie is broken by the shrill ringing of Sarah's mobile. She answers the mobile with a chipper tone, "Hello, this is Sarah speaking!"
"Sarah!" Little Alex McHugh calls out loudly through the music playing in the background. "Hold on a sec Sarah – I'm gonna run outside and away from the noise." Alex exits the Red Lion Pub quickly and resumes her call, "Sorry about that Sarah, just needed to find a quiet spot. Listen, I met a really cool and funny guy and we are going out dancing and I want you to come out! We are going to this great nightclub called Castle! I know you have to be good, the Games coming and all, but a little dancing and fun won't hurt you!"
"I don't know Alex… I was planning on staying in and hanging out with my Ma," Sarah says with a sigh.
"Please Sarah! The guy I met, Morgan, has a hot friend… come on out and you will have fun!"
Before Sarah answers Emma interjects, "Sarah, you should go and have a little fun, just no drinking or getting too crazy – you deserve a little fun as a reward during your training," Emma says seriously.
Sarah sighs before a smile grows on her face, "Fine," she says to answer Alex over the phone and her Mom in person. "Text me the address and I can come by… but Alex I met this great guy so I really don't want to be set up with your date's friend Ok?"
"No problem Sarah! I promise this will be fun!" Alex answers with a cheer into the phone.
"Sounds good Alex, I will see you soon and be safe," Sarah says seriously.
"Got it Sarah! See you soon! Bye!" Alex says before hanging up her mobile.
Sarah hangs up her mobile as her Mom gives her a wry smile. Sarah lets out a little huff thinking: well this could be fun…
Castle Nightclub
London, United Kingdom
July 24, 2012
21:30 hrs BST
On the cab ride over from the Red Lion Pub Chuck watched with humor in his eyes as Ellie and Awesome chatted enthusiastically about nutrition, sports and their jobs and it became very clear that once again the 'sparks' were flying as the pair got to know one another. Devon boomed out a trademark, "AWESOME!" to Ellie for her un-ironically awesome idea to improve his protein shakes. This caused Chuck to laugh and smile before he turned his gaze to the bustling city passing outside his window. As Chuck watched the city pass his thoughts turned to Sarah as he reflected on the effect this relative stranger was having on him.
Reaching their destination, Morgan bolted from the Hackney Cab to the front entrance of the club. As Chuck exited the cab he looks up at the seven story grey stone building and takes in the large 'store front' of the building and the large black sign overtop the entrance with CASTLE written in white gothic/old English lettering.
Chuck smiles as Morgan runs head long into a very large bouncer/doorman dressed in a black suit and tie, a crisp white dress shirt and black sunglasses, despite the time of night. A perturbed Morgan bounced off the imposing man and Chuck rushed to prevent the little bearded man from causing a scene.
"Whoa, whoa little buddy! Calm yourself… you know you can't just rush into the club's VIP entrance," Chuck tells his little friend.
"I know…" Morgan says in an exasperated tone, "But the fuzz here didn't have to manhandle me!"
"Breath Morgan," Chuck says
"Hum… um sir you do kinda look like a cop or an agent or something…" Chuck continues before trailing off.
The imposing bouncer has a blank, yet slightly stern expression, "I'm the doorman or bouncer to ya Yanks, but we do theme nights, so I have to dress up on occasion,"
"Cool!" Chuck choruses, "So what's the theme?"
"Tonight the theme is 'Spy's and Espionage' and like always Castle has a live show, which tonight is the band Foreign Born," the bouncer dressed as an agent says. "And please save the James Bond jokes and the lot 'till you're inside… if I hear one more bad joke or spy reference I am going to jam this earwig into my brain… damn tourists… oh sorry Yanks, no offense," the man says with an exasperated huff.
"Um, none taken… we were meeting a friend… can we get in?" Chuck asks hopefully.
"Sorry, you'll have to wait a tick," the bouncer replies.
"Ah come on! Let us in you douche! He's an Olympian for god's sakes!" Morgan bellows in a petulant and drunken tone.
"Easy buddy," Chuck says as he steps between Morgan and the less than impressed bouncer.
"Oi!" The doorman replies with a scowl as he points ominously at Morgan.
Chuck quickly stands between the bouncer and Morgan, while calming the situation by saying, "Sorry about that, so how long?" Chuck asks respectfully.
"You really in the Olympics Yank?" the bouncer replies with a raised eyebrow, while studying Chucks appearance from his black button down dress shirt, his grey/black jeans and his classic black and white Chuck Taylors.
"Yep! Team USA Swim Team," Chuck replies excitedly.
Surprisingly the bouncer smiles at Chuck's excitement, showing something other than a glower for the first time since the group had arrived at Castle's entrance. "You know what even though that bloke's being a bit of a wanker… and kind of looks like that Travelocity gnome… anyway, go on in Yank and good luck at the games… though you really should let us Brit's win… you know be respectful to the host and all," he says with a teasing wink.
Chuck beams, "Thanks… no promises on the last point though!"
"Fair enough, go on in and pay the cover to the left"
As they walk past the bouncer Morgan is rather unimpressed at the bouncer and his gnome comment, but Chuck is able to keep him from causing trouble.
The group enters the building and they see a booth to the left to pay the cover, while to the far right there is an elevator with a handprint scanner and another 'guard' standing next to it to allow patrons and members entry. Straight ahead up a flight of grey stone stairs in the sleek, yet Spartan entry way is a rather large circular metal 'faux bank vault' that serves as the club's entrance. Once the group paid the rather hefty cover they moved towards the large faux vault/safe. The wall was stone with the large silver circular vault at the center of the wall. The vault was smooth, shiny metal with rivets circling around its outer edge. It had a wheel shaped handle at its center and beneath the handle were four large tubes attached to the door that created an 'X' pattern and formed the locking mechanism to the wall. The group stared impressed at the very cool and unique entrance.
Once a few other patrons arrived, one of the "Agents" pressed a button and air hissed as four audible clicks were heard as the locks disengaged and the door swung open. Chuck smiles before leading the group into Castle.
After passing through the door they came to a stairway. The landing had signs denoting the location of the different parts of the three level Club. Chuck looks at the sign: pointing up the sliver metal rod staircase is the bar and lounge area, pointing past the landing is the mezzanine area called the "Cage" and pointing down the stairs is the stage and large dance area (and another bar area).
"Well let's head up to the lounge so we can find Morgan's date and then later we can check out the band! This is awesome and a great choice… I am so happy we get to see a live indie rock show!" Chuck says with a beaming grin.
The group walks up the metal staircase and enters the lounge area. There is a silver metal bar top that wraps from ones wall to the other in the far corner of the room straight ahead 30 feet from the stairs. To the right is a grey cinder block wall that would have giving an old castle look if it were not for the plasma screens and thick vertical strips of shined silver metal that give the wall a modern striped look. The wall also had a large glass wall with an etched map of the United Kingdom and a larger etched map of the world. A green laser light projected the words MI6: CONFIDENTIAL above the two maps to add to the spy theme and ambiance. The left side of the lounge is a comfortable seating area of black couches and chairs that surround four large coffee tables. Past the couch area is the half wall and railing that allows patrons to look down at the lower level stage.
As Chuck looks around at the modern bar area, Morgan suddenly rushes forward to the bar and begins excitedly talking to a brunette girl. Chuck looks at Ellie and Awesome and says, "Hey I'm going to go meet Morgan's crush… you guys going to hang out?"
"Ya bro I think we will be fine, thanks eh!" Devon says excitedly as he looks down at Ellie.
Ellie smiles back, "We will be fine, go watch out for Morgan."
"Will do, have fun you two," Chuck says with a smile as he walks towards the bar.
As Chuck nears the couple he observes Morgan who is gesturing wildly and excitedly, much to the amusement of his companion who is in near fits of laughter at the little bearded man's antics. Morgan turns and sees Chuck and smiles widely as he waves Chuck over enthusiastically.
"Chuck buddy this is Alex! She is so awesome!" Morgan tells Chuck causing a tiny blush to form on Alex's cheeks.
"Nice to meet you Alex," Chuck says with a kind smile.
"G'day Chuck, nice to meet you too! My friend is coming soon so…" Alex says in her cute Aussie accent and with a twinkle in her eyes. As she looks at Chuck she thinks, Sarah is going to love this cute guy!
Chuck frowns slightly, "Oh… um that's OK… I actually met someone and I just want to be clear because I don't want to give your friend the wrong idea…" Chuck says while scratching his head nervously.
Alex smiles wow a nice guy, "Aw that's so sweet… come to think of it she mentioned the same thing, so that's perfect. Oh there she is, give me a sec and I'll bring her over!" Alex tells Chuck and Morgan excitedly before heading towards the stairs.
Meanwhile…
Sarah entered the nightclub with little effort, although she was still not used to the effect her stunning looks had at places like these. She looked beautiful in her tight, formfitting black jeans and a long, flowing black sleeveless top with beige leaf prints on it. Her outfit was finished off with stylish black high heel boots. She climbed the silver metal stairs and entered the lounge and looked from side to side for her friend.
Alex rushes over while calling out jubilantly, "SARAH!" before grasping Sarah in a tight hug.
"Hey Alex!"
"OK, Sarah I know you already have a guy in your sights, but fair warning the guy with Morgan is so cute!" Alex says with a sly smile.
"The bearded guy? Really, really not my style…" Sarah says with an awkward smile… he's no Chuck that's for damn sure.
Alex looks at Morgan then back at Sarah, "Not him! He's mine, it's his tall friend. Morgan's friend is really nice, but he said he met someone recently and doesn't want to hurt you because he said he really likes her… sound familiar?" Alex says with a smile. "You may not be looking for anyone because of your mystery guy, but he seems cool so we will defiantly have some fun!"
"Huh… OK that sounds good," Sarah says back over the music, while thinking about Alex's description.
"Come on!" Alex says before dragging Sarah to the bar.
Alex and Sarah reach the two men and see a smiling Morgan and the back of a tall guy. "Hey Morgan this is my good friend Sarah!"
Chuck turns and both he and Sarah freeze.
Alex smiles at Morgan before continuing, "Chuck this is Sarah Walker. Sarah this is Chuck Bartowski."
Both Chuck and Sarah continue to stare in slight shock until both burst out laughing, much to the surprise of their friends.
As Chuck and Sarah laugh heartily they both think, couldn't have made this up even if I tried as they considered their humorous third introduction.
They regained their composure briefly and Sarah smiled and stretched out her hand, "Nice to meet you Chuck," trying and failing to suppress her giggles.
Chuck smiles back with his Bartowski grin, "Likewise Sarah… it's very nice to see you… again," he finishes with a wry smile.
AN2: Next up "In the Club!" So this is the last 'meeting' chapter that adds to a main theme of this story. From here on out it is the relationship arc of this story. I struggled to find a nightclub in London that fit what I was looking for – not too exclusive so the characters could get in, but an intimate club (not huge techno club) and I wanted to replicate parts of the pilot. So as I researched it finally dawned on me – this is AU so I created a club, which I made look like Castle – way better than trying to put them in a locale I have never been – it was hard enough to do that twice in this chapter at the restaurant and the pub. I think it worked, but as always please let me know! So hopefully I painted a decent picture of the restaurant, the pub and Castle, please let me know – I find I am very story driven so I am trying to add to the descriptiveness of this story – if you want to see impressive descriptions in a story take a look at Angus MacNab's Chuck vs the Farm (especially the last chapter… very impressive). Also, yes I did in fact steal Capt'n Awesome for Canada – sorry my American friends! I think it fits and I wanted a counterpoint to the American team (as I will focus on Chuck and Zondra). I hope you think it is awesome EH! Yes, I am in fact terrible, but I am having a bit of fun!
Additional Disclaimer – I don't own the Red Lion Pub, St James or the restaurant Le Gavroche or the Hotel St. James – I apparently am providing free advertising for them though (Hum… this is kind of an affront to my business degree, but I will let it slide for the good of the story!). Finally – CASTLE (the club) is all mine! I hope you liked the description – I think it would be a really awesome club… if it were remotely real – wow quoting Chuck out of the story, apparently I am really sad! I will update soon and as always I love hearing from you - PM's and reviews are always welcomed and I hope you continue to enjoy! Oh and I will PM the 100th reviewer and they can ask for a question about the direction of the story or the next chapter if they so please and I will give them a shout out next chapter in the AN – thanks for all the support!